Dogs found in freezing, squalid conditions seized from backyard breeder

The BC SPCA has seized seven dogs from a backyard breeder in Cherryville after getting a call from a concerned citizen about the conditions they were living in.

The society said their protection officers found the dogs in outdoor pens in freezing temperatures and the pens were contaminated with feces and urine.

The dogs included three five-month old Australian shepherd-poodle-mix puppies, along with two four-year-old standard poodles, a five-year-old Australian shepherd and a four-year-old cocker spaniel.

One of dogs seized by SPCA from breeder in Cherryville. (SPCA photo)

Eileen Drever, senior protection officer and stakeholder relations for the BC SPCA, said dogs kept outside are inherently vulnerable, but when its below freezing, they are also susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia.

“These dog breeds are particularly vulnerable as they do not have the kind of coats that can endure lengthy periods of time outdoors in freezing temperatures, especially the puppies,” Drever remarked.

There was also concerns with a lack of water.

“Dirty water bowls were flipped over or frozen. Although some of the dogs had access to plastic dog crates, there was very little bedding and it is clear these dogs suffered in the cold with no other options to get warm,” Drever said.

Some of the animals’ fur was heavily matted and frozen, containing urine and feces and all the dogs had overgrown nails.

“This is yet another case of a backyard breeder not taking adequate care of their dogs,” Drever said.

She asks the public to do their research and make sure they are acquiring a dog from a reputable breeder.

“We don’t want to support breeders that don’t prioritize the welfare of their animals. There are resources available on the BC SPCA website to help you find a good breeder.”

The animals are being cared for in SPCA centres in the Okanagan and will be available for adoption in one to two weeks.